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CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker announced his appointment of Michele L. Pankow, public safety expert and seasoned fire chief, to serve as the Illinois State Fire Marshal pending senate confirmation. Chief Pankow has spent over 32 years in the Illinois fire service, and will be the first woman to serve as the Illinois State Fire Marshal beginning in mid-July. “With 32 years of exemplary service, Chief Pankow’s unique knowledge and skillset have more than earned her this new role as Illinois State Fire Marshal,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Having risen in the ranks since her first day on the job, she understands the needs of Illinois firefighters, and is versed in the public safety functions of our state. I am grateful for her ongoing commitment to Illinois, and look forward to seeing her strengthen our team.” “I am deeply honored and humbled to be appointed as the Illinois State Fire Marshal. After more than three decades of service with the

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From vibrant county fairs and lively music festivals to engaging kids' programs and unique local markets, the Riverbend area offers a diverse array of events that cater to all ages and interests. For a complete listing of upcoming happenings and more details, be sure to visit https://www.riverbender.com/events/ . Featured GGCA Summer Camp invites children ages 3 to 12 to embark on an unforgettable adventure this summer at Greater Glory Christian Academy. From June 2nd through July 25th, kids will dive into the exciting theme "Bible Explorer: Trek through Truth!" engaging in outdoor and water games, crafts, and weekly field trips including visits to local attractions and the NCG Cinema in Alton. The camp runs weekdays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM with before and aftercare available. Daily hot meals are provided, and spots are filling fast—call (618) 468-1068 or email ggcaalton@gmail.com to register and give your child a summer full of learning, laughter, and faith. First Fridays

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EDWARDSVILLE – A historic Edwardsville neighborhood’s signature water tower is getting a nearly $500,000 makeover. Edwardsville City Council members voted unanimously on Tuesday night to approve a series of improvements to the water tower’s overall structure, paint, and electrical/lighting systems at a total cost of $495,991. Alderman William Krause spoke to the water tower’s historical significance, hoping these upgrades will see it continue standing as a symbol of Edwardsville’s pride far into the future. “I think it's an icon of Edwardsville's skyline,” Krause said. “It's not just specific to the Leclaire neighborhood. It has become one of the last few, they call them 'tin man' water towers in southern Illinois, and I think the refresh of this monument in our community will give us the next 50 years of pride we can look up to.” Krause and Alderwoman Elizabeth Grant noted the lighting and electrical upgrades will allow for

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BELLEVILLE - Investigator Lee Rinehart has retired from the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department in Belleville, after a combined 32 years in law enforcement. His career began in January 1993 with the Randolph County Sheriff’s Department and included 12 years with the Village of Marissa, where he reached the rank of sergeant. Rinehart joined the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department on February 18, 2007, initially serving as a patrol deputy. During his time there, he worked in various assignments including Patrol, Metro, the Drug Tactical Unit, and the Investigations Division. From 2010 to 2023, Rinehart was a task force officer with the Drug Enforcement Administration. The DEA unit conducted thousands of investigations that led to arrests and asset seizures related to high-level drug cases. After leaving the DEA Task Force, he was assigned to the Criminal Investigative Division, where he served for nearly two years before retiring. The St. Clair County

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EDWARDSVILLE – The Edwardsville Route 66 Festival is set to bring a full day and night of fun events and activities to City Park in downtown Edwardsville this Saturday, June 7, 2025. This marks the 27th year for the City’s annual ode to the Mother Road, which will celebrate its 100th birthday in 2026. Visitors can take in the sights and delights, including food, live music, a Roadside Market, vintage vehicles and a car cruise, bounce houses, trolley tours and more, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday in and around City Park, 101 S. Buchanan Street. “Route 66 is a fun and fascinating part of Edwardsville’s history, and this festival brings it alive in such a vibrant way,” Mayor Art Risavy said. “We look forward to the activities, the energy and the visitors every summer.” The Route 66 Festival is hosted by Edwardsville’s Parks and Recreation Department as a nostalgic nod to Route 66, which opened in 1926, spanning 2,400 miles between Chicag

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GRANITE CITY – Ms. Hutchings’ Computer Concepts and Advanced Computer Concepts classes at Granite City High School had 24 students earn certifications in Microsoft Word, Excel, and/or PowerPoint. Of these, 14 students achieved certification in all three applications, earning the title of Microsoft Office Associate Specialists. Certification scores were submitted to Microsoft as part of a contest, with winners to be announced at a later date. Proficiency in Microsoft applications remains critical, as the Office suite continues to be the industry standard for productivity tools across a wide range of professions. Mastering these programs provides students with a competitive edge in both academic and career pursuits. The students who earned the certification include: Nevaeh Becker Ja’Maiya Bennet Mason Camren Riley Carnahan Alex Carrillo Lucas Dickerson Kamryn Dunn Brendon Feyerabend Zoriah Gillon Landon Goodyear Auric Heuss Mikayla

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GODFREY - Life coach Tara Hurst has started a new networking group to empower women. The Riverbend’s chapter of “Women Empowering Women” will have their first meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Bakers & Hale in Godfrey. Hurst looks forward to sharing insights and personal development tips with attendees, as well as creating a space for leaders, entrepreneurs and others to network. “You will get out of it what you put into it,” Hurst said. “If that means you just go and you sit and you don’t make connections or whatever, that’s fine. Go enjoy your lunch. For me, though, it’s really about making connections and figuring out, who do I know? Who would I like to meet? Who can they introduce me to? Just really building those relationships.” Hurst shared that she has attended Women Empowering Women events for years in other communities like Belleville and O’Fallon, but she wanted to create

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ALTON – Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, about one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. But each man’s risk of prostate cancer can vary, based on his age, race/ethnicity, and other factors. For some types of cancer, including prostate cancer, screenings can help find cancers at an early stage, when they are likely to be treated easier. The main benefit of screening is that if prostate cancer is found as a result, it’s likely to be at an earlier stage than if no screening were done. OSF Moeller Cancer Center (2200 Central Ave., Alton, Ill., 62002) will be hosting a FREE prostate cancer screening event on Monday, June 9, 2025, 2–4 p.m. This screening event is “first come, first serve.” Individuals will be seen in order of arrival. The last person to be seen will be checked in no later than 4 p.m. For

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Museum’s new exhibit, “NOIR V,” is open through Sept. 1, featuring photography, mixed media, oil and acrylic paintings, pastel work, and other artworks by black artists highlighting the theme of resilience. The exhibit is curated by Austin Wells and Elijah Miller. Artists use their work to celebrate and preserve Black culture, traditions, and values, fostering a sense of pride and belonging. The art emphasizes the importance of community and collective strength, highlighting the bonds that have helped Black people survive and thrive. Despite the challenges experienced by the black community, the art conveys messages of hope, resilience, and the potential for positive change and transformation. “This year we have cultivated a familiar and welcoming event in partnership with the Illinois State Museum for Springfield’s Juneteenth Celebration,” said co-curator Austin Wells . “We are thrilled to present

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has set June 13 through 16 as Illinois free fishing days for 2025. During these four days, anglers can fish without purchasing a fishing license, salmon stamp or inland trout stamp in Illinois. The goal is for non-anglers to discover or rediscover the fun of fishing and to introduce children to the activity. Groups and organizations that need fishing equipment and educational materials can complete the online form and IDNR will furnish materials while supplies last. Outside of the free fishing days, Illinois requires anyone over the age of 16 to have a fishing license to fish. Exclusions apply to active-duty military and people with disabilities. Standard fishing licenses can be purchased for $15 at vendors throughout Illinois or online . Learn more about fishing in Illinois at ifishillinois.org. About IDNR The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is celebrating 100 years of conservation and

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COLLINSVILLE - In May 2025, Revity Credit Union came together to raise $1,520 for the Collinsville Junior Service Club through the Revity Threads of Kindness Program. This program, funded by employees, allows Revity Credit Union staff to embody the credit union's philosophy of people helping people. By contributing a monthly monetary donation to a local organization, employees can enjoy wearing jeans and tennis shoes on Fridays and Saturdays throughout that month. In 2025, Revity Credit Union is committed to impactful giving and community support, weaving kindness into the fabric of our daily lives and ensuring that every jeans day makes a difference. The Collinsville Junior Service Club was nominated as the recipient of Revity's May Threads of Kindness donation, receiving $1,520.00. The Collinsville Junior Service Club provides women an opportunity to make a difference in this community by enriching the lives of others. The club plans social events and organizes fundraisers so tha

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HUNTLEY — Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and Intersect Illinois today announced Silesia will open its second U.S. facility in Huntley. As part of the company’s decision to expand in Illinois, it will invest $40 million to build a new flavor innovation and production facility and create 41 new full-time jobs. “I am thrilled that Silesia is doubling down on their commitment to Illinois and expanding on an already rich legacy in our state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With the opening of the new flavor innovation and production facility in Huntley, Silesia is bringing good jobs and opportunity to our people while further solidifying our status as a national leader in food and beverage manufacturing and processing.” Silesia – a flavor company headquartered in Germany – develops, produces and distributes flavors to the food and beverage industry worldwide. The company’s ne

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today delivered an opening statement at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the nominations of Whitney Hermandorfer to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit; Zachary Bluestone to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri; Joshua Divine to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri and the Western District of Missouri; Maria Lanahan to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri; and Judge Cristian Stevens to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. Key Quotes: “A decision was made last week by Attorney General Bondi that the Justice Department will no longer cooperate with the American Bar Association rating process for judicial nominees. What is going on here? Why is this being changed so abruptly? Well, you look back and you can understand if you look at the history o

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COLLINSVILLE - Good Shepherd Lutheran School recently released their High Honor Roll and Honor Roll lists for Quarter 4 of the 2024-2025 school year: High Honor Roll with Distinction (Gr. 7&8 - GPA 4.00+) 8th Grade: Chloe B., Raelei B., Trinity B., Liam D., Zoe G., Cooper I., Elle J., Prabhgun K., Jake R., Chance S., Elise T., Cali W. 7th Grade: Will B., Isabella B., Owen C., Agnes H., Livy P., Caroline S. High Honor Roll (Gr. 5&6 - GPA 3.51 to 4.0; Gr. 7&8 - GPA 3.51 to 3.99) 8th Grade: Robert A., Brayden B., Ezra C., Rory D., Meghan M., Caleb M., Hunter S. 7th Grade: Zion C., Myla G., Sydney H., Alexis K., Jacob K., Elise L., Violet M., Piper M., Sophia N., Charlotte P., Isaiah W. 6th Grade: Alison B., Vivian C., Molly F., Lola F., Lena G., Hunter M., Adelynn M., Bhavneet S., Natalie S., Riley Y. 5th Grade: Remy B., Brad B., Aiden B., Livi B., Alayna E., Hazel F., Gavin G., Savannah G., Camy H., Francesca H., Isla J., James K., Lucy P., Amelia R., Jed S.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) and Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) reintroduced the bipartisan Save America’s Rural Hospitals Act to help struggling rural hospitals stay open by reforming Medicare repayment structures. As many rural hospitals struggle with rising costs, this bill gives them the support they need to continue serving communities in Illinois’ 13th Congressional District and around the country. “Rural hospitals are a lifeline for the folks they serve. But with healthcare costs rising and outdated Medicare repayment rules, many have been forced to close their doors,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “The Save America’s Rural Hospitals Act offers a real solution to help rural hospitals become more financially solvent so they can continue to serve our communities. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Graves to make sure that every American can access quality care

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MADISON COUNTY – Madison County Transit (MCT) is reminding residents that MCT Micro, its affordable, on-demand public transportation service, is now available in Bethalto, Cottage Hills, and Rosewood Heights, with extended evening service in Collinsville on Saturdays. Operating Monday through Saturday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, the Bethalto | Cottage Hills zone includes convenient transfer points at Wood River Walmart and Main & Edwards in Upper Alton. In Collinsville, Saturday evening service now runs until midnight, giving riders more flexibility to work late, attend events, and get home safely. “The MCT MicroTransit service meets people where they are—literally and figuratively,” said SJ Morrison, MCT Managing Director. “By offering flexible, affordable rides in Bethalto, Cottage Hills, and now late into the evening in Collinsville, we’re expanding transit access and helping residents stay connected to work, school, healthcare, and each other.”

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GLEN CARBON – Following are the full High Honor Roll and Honor Roll lists for the second semester of the 2024-2025 school year at Father McGivney Catholic High School: High Honor Roll is awarded to students with a 4.0 or greater weighted GPA. 12th grade: Tyler Ahring, Kylie Becker, Julia Behrmann, Liam Boeving, Aaron Broadwater, David Carroll, Jane Cummins, Joseph Feldhaus, Molly Foppe, Lillian Gilbertson, Milania Harris, Brynn Hawkins, Mason Holmes, Leah Hopfinger, Levi Huber, Sabrina Ivnik, Kannon Kamp, Chase Kelley, Andrew Kleinheider, Rachel Kretzer, Emma Mathews, Sophia Mineman, Emily Moody, Alivia Peck, Caroline Rakers, Gracelyn Ratchford, Olivia Rodgers, Elena Rybak, Carissa Speight, Evelyn Sturdivant, Spencer Sundberg, Justin Terhaar, Lily Terrell, Isabella Venarsky, Courtney Vrenick 11th grade: Natalie Beck, Elise Bishop, Madilyn Collignon, Gretchen Ertel, Kaitlyn Foppe, Anastasia Hasenstab, Chase Jansen, Erin Kretzer, Grace Lubeck, Andrew Nohl, Zoe Oller,

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SPRINGFIELD, IL – Following the passage of Governor JB Pritzker’s seventh consecutive balanced budget, the State of Illinois today highlighted a historic $500 million investment in site readiness—marking a bold step forward in transforming unused state properties into hubs of economic opportunity. This investment—which represents the largest site readiness investment in state history—will prepare sites across the state to attract new industries, create jobs, and bring new life to communities that have long been impacted by shuttered or unused facilities. The Site Readiness initiative includes two major components: $300 million for the “Surplus to Success” program led by the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS), which will prepare idle state-owned properties for private development. $200 million for the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to expand its existing Site Readiness programs

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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police (ISP) is proud to announce the deployment of a new state-of-the-art command vehicle designed to improve emergency response coordination, enhance public safety, and provide crucial on-site support during critical incidents across the state. The command vehicle was provided by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Radiological Security. The new command vehicle, a 2025 Freightliner, replaces an 18-year-old vehicle with antiquated technology. The new command vehicle is equipped with high-definition cameras and monitors, state-of-the-art communications technology, real-time data access, and dual slide outs for a large conference room. It will serve as a central hub for ISP officers during emergencies such as natural disasters, large-scale accidents, public events, and search-and-rescue operations. "This command vehicle gives us the ability to respond faster, coordinate more effectively, and better serve our communities during critical incidents,"

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ROODHOUSE – Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced that a Roodhouse, Illinois man was sentenced to 10 years in prison for possessing child sexual abuse material. The case is part of Raoul’s ongoing work, in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies and local law enforcement officials throughout Illinois, to apprehend offenders who download and trade child sexual abuse images online. Ethan T. Seaton, 20, was sentenced Tuesday by Greene County Circuit Court Judge Zachary Schmidt after previously pleading guilty to two counts of Class 2 felony possession of child pornography. “This sentence sends the message that offenders who commit these horrific crimes will be held accountable,” Raoul said. “My office will continue to collaborate with law enforcement officers throughout the state to protect children from exploitation and secure justice for survivors.” Raoul’s investigators, along with officers from the Roodhouse Police Department

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